We literally made a ‘bomb’, when we Put on the Blitz

St Johns Community Centre in Penistone was transformed into a ‘Blitz’ era dance hall with sandbags for the stage, blast tape on the windows and music played by a live band to get people ‘In the Mood’. Many dance goers took the opportunity to dress in period clothing and outfits ranged from a US Army Colonel to a Spiv selling nylons.

Local schools & businesses came out in support of the team. Two schools, Cowlersley Junior and Infants in Huddersfield and St Johns Junior and Infants from Penistone, assisted with some artwork for the event as part of their studies into World War 2 and the Blitz. Andy Plummer, Woodhead team member and landlord of The Huntsman at Thurlstone ran and staffed the bar free of charge, he also arranged the free supply of bar equipment from White Rose Brewery in Sheffield and a barrel of beer from Clarks of Wakefield.

Phil Newing, team secretary commented  “This has been a great example of community spirit, just like in the Blitz. We raised our profile, peoples awareness of what we do and, more importantly, lots of smiles with the added bonus of £1,900 towards replacement kit”

Lady Mayoress Carol Bradbury was the guest of honour who opened the evening with a rousing speech praising the team for its community based efforts, and Stocksbridge & Penistone MP Rt Hon Angela Smith was also on hand to lend her support.

Later in the evening our friends at 95.7 Penistone FM popped in to record the proceedings and took  interviews; playing them on air shortly afterwards.

The originators of the idea were Woodhead team members Andy Simpson and Wayne Thackray.

Wayne said “We wanted an idea that was different and wasn’t as labour intensive for team members as some other fundraising events” he went on to add “we are really pleased that the event was so successful. We sold all the tickets prior to the event, so we may need a bigger venue next time”

Andy added “There are so many people who help with these things, from the seemingly endless amount of planning and preparation, through to the delivery, attending on the night and the cleaning away afterwards. It’s not just team members that get dragged in either, it’s wifes, husbands, partners, kids….. The amount of support and goodwill always amazes me. I’m extremely proud to be involved with such a great group of people that extends way beyond the immediate Woodhead Team Members. Our combined efforts have raised a very satisfactory amount. I’ve already got ideas for the next two events!